WALDORF, Md. – Officers from the Charles County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Operations Unit are investigating two unrelated traffic incidents that left a 17-year-old male critically injured in one case and an officer assaulted and injured in another. In both cases, vehicles that are prohibited from use on public roadways were factors. The CCSO is reminding drivers of the importance of following Maryland’s Motor Vehicle laws to prevent dangerous situations that often have serious or life-threatening consequences. Vehicles being operated on highways must be equipped with necessary safety equipment and be registered appropriately for roadway use. It is a requirement to display lighted lamps or an illuminating device in unfavorable visibility conditions and it is against the law to wear headphones while operating a vehicle. Furthermore, it is recommended to wear bright or reflective clothing when operating these types of vehicles in the dark. Below are the two cases that recently occurred:
Motor Vehicle Crash Involving Vehicle and Scooter: On August 6 at 1:49 a.m., officers responded to the area of Billingsley Road near Sunridge Lane in Waldorf for the report of a crash. A preliminary investigation showed the victim, age 17, was operating a motorized scooter, which did not have operating lights, in the travel portion of Billingsley Road. He was accompanied by his two brothers, also age 17. The siblings were operating a motorized scooter and a bicycle on the roadway. The victim, who was wearing dark clothing, was in the slow lane of Billingsley Road and his siblings were in a turn lane. The victim’s brothers saw an oncoming car and tried to warn their brother, but he was wearing earphones and did not hear them. As the victim continued riding eastbound on Billingsley, he was struck by the vehicle. The driver immediately stopped and rendered aid until emergency workers arrived. The victim was transported to a hospital with critical injuries. Anyone with additional information should contact PFC D. Walker at 301-609-3251. The investigation is continuing.
Police Officer Assaulted during Traffic Stop / Help Needed Identifying Suspect: On August 5 at 7:49 p.m., a patrol officer was flagged down regarding ATVs and mini bikes on the roadway in the 3800 block of Chicamuxen Road in Marbury. As the officer investigated, he observed a yellow ATV on the shoulder of the road with the engine on but unattended. Several people were nearby on dirt bikes. As the officer was attempting to turn the ATV off, an unknown male approached, pushed the officer, and then got on the ATV and drove off, striking the officer in the leg and injuring the officer’s knee and ankle. All of the riders fled. The officer was treated for injuries to his leg. The suspect is described as having a large build, wearing a black tank top and black shorts. He also had a GoPro-style camera attached to his forehead. Photos of the suspect are attached. Anyone with information about the identity of the suspect is asked to call Sgt. Rager at 301-932-2222. Tipsters wishing to remain anonymous may contact Charles County Crime Solvers by calling 1-866-411-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com or by using the P3Intel mobile app. The investigation is continuing.
